This dish features yummy chicken sausages paired with fresh zucchini noodles. It’s a light, healthy meal that’s quick to make and full of flavor!
Zucchini pasta is like a magic trick—it’s super low-carb! I love how easy it is to whip this up on a busy night. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a meal that feels like a cheat day? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Sausages: These bring a lovely flavor to your dish. If you want a lighter option, try turkey sausages, or for a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausages!
Zucchini: Fresh, juicy zucchinis are great for this. If zucchinis aren’t available, yellow squash works well, or even a mix of other veggies like bell peppers or spinach can add color and taste.
Pasta: Rotini adds a fun texture, but feel free to switch it up! Penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta are great alternatives, depending on what you have on hand.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and easy! If they’re out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for an extra punch of flavor.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Zucchini?
Cooking zucchini can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right! You want it tender but not mushy. Start by heating the skillet over medium heat, adding olive oil first. This keeps the zucchini from sticking.
- Slice zucchini into half-moons for even cooking.
- Add them to the hot pan and let them sit without stirring too much; this browns them nicely!
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes, just until they’re tender and still have a slight bite.
Remember, they will continue to cook a bit after you add them to the pasta, so don’t overdo it!
Easy Chicken Sausages with Zucchini Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 chicken sausages, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz rotini or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something healthy and filling without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini according to package instructions until it’s al dente, then drain it and set it aside. This is the backbone of your dish, so make sure it’s cooked just right!
2. Cooking the Chicken Sausages:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausages and cook for about 5-6 minutes, turning them occasionally. You’re looking for them to be browned and cooked through. Once they’re done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing the Garlic and Zucchini:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Next, add the sliced zucchini. Cook for 4-5 minutes until it’s tender but still has a little crispness. Remember, we want it just right!
4. Adding the Cherry Tomatoes:
Now, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet and let them cook for another 2 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. This adds a lovely freshness to your dish!
5. Combining Everything:
Return the cooked chicken sausages to the skillet with the veggies. Add the cooked pasta next, followed by the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together gently so it’s well mixed and heated through. This is where your flavors all come together!
6. Finishing Touches:
Finally, sprinkle in the fresh chopped parsley and give it another gentle toss. This adds a burst of color and fresh flavor.
7. Serving Up:
Serve your delicious chicken sausages with zucchini pasta hot, topped with a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese. You’ve created a colorful, tasty meal!
Enjoy your quick and tasty Easy Chicken Sausages with Zucchini Pasta! 🍝
FAQ
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any gluten-free pasta you prefer. Just cook it according to the package instructions, and it will work perfectly in this dish.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Sausages?
If you want to make this dish vegetarian or vegan, try using plant-based sausages or even chickpeas for protein. You can also use diced chicken breast for a different flavor and texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help moisten it as needed!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add in any seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time a bit to ensure everything is cooked to your liking.
